Herbier des Anciens — Detailed notebookFR · EN

common walnut

Juglans regia
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Walnut hulls and bark contain compounds (juglone, concentrated tannins) that may irritate skin or mucous membranes with prolonged or concentrated use. Prolonged internal use of preparations based on leaves or hulls is not recommended without advice from a healthcare professional. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children, due to insufficient safety data. If taking medications, consult a pharmacist or physician before regular use.
Infusion — Dried leaves

Walnut leaf infusion

Steep a small quantity of dried leaves in hot (not boiling) water for about ten minutes, then strain. Traditionally consumed in moderation, without prolonged self-medication. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Dried leaves

Decoction for hair rinse or skin lotion

Gently boil the leaves for a few minutes in water, allow to cool, then strain before external application as a lotion or rinse. Reserved for external use on unbroken skin. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Tincture — Fresh walnut hulls

Walnut hull tincture

Fresh hulls were traditionally macerated in alcohol for several weeks away from light, then filtered. This more concentrated preparation requires the knowledge of an experienced herbalist and is not intended for improvised use. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Common walnut can be found in the countryside and orchards of Europe, as well as in herbal shops in the form of dried leaves or prepared tincture.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Leaves are traditionally harvested in spring or early summer, before complete fruit formation, in dry weather.

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